National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Every year on December 6th, Canada observes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, a day dedicated to honoring the lives of women lost to gender-based violence and reflecting on the ongoing work to create a safer, more equitable society. As we remember those lives, we also recognize the countless women and girls across Canada and beyond who continue to experience violence.
Understanding Gender-Based Violence: A Complex and Urgent Issue
Gender-based violence impacts women from all backgrounds, yet certain groups, including Indigenous women, women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women with disabilities, face it disproportionately. Nearly half of all Canadian women have experienced at least one incident of physical or sexual violence since the age of 16. Gender-based violence manifests in various forms, from physical and emotional abuse to economic control and coercion, each with a lasting impact on survivors’ mental health, economic stability, and well-being.
Addressing this violence requires recognizing and challenging the systemic and societal factors that perpetuate it, such as ingrained power imbalances, economic inequality, and harmful cultural stereotypes. Lasting change demands a multifaceted approach that includes education, community involvement, and policy reform.
Moving Beyond Remembrance: Steps We Can All Take
While remembrance is essential, action is equally crucial. Here are some ways we can all contribute to change:
Educate Ourselves and Others: Understanding the root causes of gender-based violence is the first step toward meaningful change. Share resources, attend workshops, and engage in conversations about these issues in your community.
Support Survivors: Listening to and believing survivors is impactful. Survivors of gender-based violence often face stigma and limited access to resources. Showing empathy and connecting individuals to resources like shelters, counseling services, and support groups is crucial.
Challenge Harmful Attitudes: Each of us can work to dismantle stereotypes and societal norms that sustain gender-based violence. This includes promoting respectful relationships and fostering inclusive, non-violent spaces in all aspects of life.
Advocate for Policy Change: Support initiatives or advocate for legislation that addresses gender-based violence on a systemic level, such as improved workplace protections, access to housing, and enhanced resources for survivors.
Engage with Community Programs: Participating in or supporting local programs, whether through donations, volunteer work, or awareness-building, amplifies the work of organizations dedicated to fighting gender-based violence.
The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women reminds us that everyone has a role in ending gender-based violence. By educating ourselves, supporting survivors, challenging harmful norms, and advocating for systemic change, we can collectively build a society where all women and girls live free from violence and fear.
Resources for Those Experiencing Violence
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, numerous resources across Alberta provide support, advocacy, and safety for those affected by gender-based violence. Here are some key organizations and services available in Alberta:
Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence
- Phone: 1-866-403-8000 (available province-wide)
- Text/Chat: Chat online or text for immediate, confidential support.
- A free, confidential helpline for anyone in Alberta impacted by sexual violence, offering information, emotional support, and connection to local resources.
The Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter
- 24-Hour Family Violence Helpline: 403-234-7233 (SAFE)
- Provides emergency shelter, counseling, and community-based support programs for women and families affected by violence and abuse. Services are available for those in crisis, seeking safety, or looking for longer-term support.
Edmonton Women’s Shelter (WIN House)
- Crisis Line: 780-479-0058